Travel Guide to Scotland

Population: 5 Million

Language: English/Gaelic

Time Zone: GMT

Capital: Glasgow

Currency: UK Pound

Scotland can be roughly divided  into three parts; Highlands and Islands, Central and the Southern region. Apart from being a fantastic holiday destination, the Highlands are home to a quarter of a million inhabitants who live in  communities right across the region. Some are in the vibrant city of Inverness; others live on remote islands with only boat access. They all, however share a strong cultural heritage and a fierce proud history. Gaelic is quite common, though English is spoken everywhere and the GB Pound is used.

The Scottish weather is a conversation topic wherever you go and is often changeable, so be flexible when you pack. Accommodation is also varied. If your choice of holiday rental is for something on a grand scale you could stay in a Victorian shooting- lodge on an estate, or in a cottage by a lighthouse. If it's seclusion you want, there is a choice of holiday cottages by lochs , by the sea, or by themselves with no neighbours for miles. The Cairngorms, Scotland's own Alps, has plenty of holiday accommodation for skiers and snowboarders who enjoy some of the best conditions Britain has to offer. Fly-fishermen flock to the myriad lochs, lakes and rivers in search of a fish of a lifetime. 

There is more to Central Scotland than just the large cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee. Each has its history, transportation network and share of modern facilities, but for somewhere to relax and take time out, it is hard to beat the Isles - Mull, Jura, Arran, Islay- names made world-famous  by their whisky distilleries.

Cottage rentals are plentiful across the Borders region and a visitor looking for self-catering can have a choice of houses, apartments, lodges or the odd watermill. As for food - Scotch beef and smoked salmon are renowned, but every visitor should try smokies, crowdie, tatties and haggis. There is so much to see and in Scotland that one visit won't be enough.